Reasons it's good to have a first aid kit on hand
Accidents can happen at any time, whether you’re at home, in the workplace, or out in the field. Having a first aid kit nearby can help you respond quickly and effectively to minor injuries or medical issues. It’s a practical way to handle things like cuts, burns, or sprains before seeking professional help if needed. A well-stocked first aid kit means you're prepared for common injuries and can manage them promptly.
Biltema offers a versatile range of first aid kits to suit different needs and situations. Our selection includes both large and small kits, so you can find one that fits in your car, bike, or on your travels. Regardless of size, the kits contain a wide assortment of common first aid supplies, such as plasters, bandages, scissors, and dressings. This ensures you can select a solution that covers your needs without compromising on preparedness.
Which first aid kit should I choose?
You can rarely predict what types of injuries you or others may sustain in a given situation. Therefore, as a general rule, it’s best to prepare for the worst and carry the most comprehensive first aid kit possible. Only when space becomes limited should you reduce the amount of equipment you bring. Here are some situations where you might want to consider the size of the first aid kit:
- On a trip: If you have room in your backpack or bag, a large first aid kit is ideal. However, if you're not engaging in intense physical activity, a smaller kit could suffice.
- On a road trip: You’ll always have space in your vehicle, so a large first aid kit is recommended for emergency situations. While it's not mandatory to carry first aid supplies, given the risk of traffic accidents, it’s better to be prepared.
- On a bike ride: Space is limited, so a smaller first aid kit is more practical, especially since you likely won't be able to carry much without a large backpack.
Always read the instructions included with your first aid kit, as you may find supplies you’ve never used before. Familiarising yourself with the contents ensures you're better prepared when an emergency arises, potentially saving precious time.
What's inside a typical first aid kit
A first aid kit is designed to provide the essential tools needed to handle minor injuries or medical situations. Having the right supplies on hand ensures that you can manage everything from cuts and scrapes to sprains and burns until professional help arrives, if necessary. Here's an overview of what you'll typically find in a standard first aid kit.
- Cleansing wipes: Used for cleaning wounds or skin before applying dressings or bandages.
- Dry wipes: Help dry the area after cleaning or to remove excess moisture from wounds.
- Dressing bandage: A sterile bandage for covering and protecting larger cuts or injuries.
- Sterile compresses: Used to cover wounds and absorb blood or fluids, preventing infection.
- Scissors: For cutting bandages, tape, or clothing to access injuries or apply dressings.
- Protective gloves: Worn to protect both the injured person and the responder from infection or contamination.
- Plasters: Small adhesive strips used for covering minor cuts, abrasions, or blisters.
- Blister plasters: Specially designed to cushion and protect blisters from further irritation or infection.
The contents of first aid kits can vary, with some kits containing more or fewer items depending on the size. However, you can always check the detailed specifications for each product to ensure it meets your needs.
Need more care? Take a look at our range of wound care aids.
Collect your first aid kit within 2 hours at Biltema
At Biltema, we offer a wide range of first aid kits suited for different needs, whether you're at home, in the workplace, or on the go. Our first aid kits help you manage minor injuries or medical situations quickly and effectively. When you order your first aid kit from Biltema, you can pay online and pick it up at your nearest store within 2 hours using our Pay & Collect service.
FAQ
What should be in a first aid kit?
A basic first aid kit should contain items like bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes, gloves, scissors, and an emergency blanket. It’s important to make sure your kit is stocked with the essentials to handle common injuries, such as cuts, burns, or sprains.
Is it a legal requirement to have a first aid kit?
It is not legally required for private households to keep a first aid kit, though strongly recommended. Workplaces, schools, and vehicles, however, are often legally obliged under health and safety regulations to have accessible and appropriately stocked kits to ensure prompt response in case of accidents or emergencies.
How often should I check my first aid kit?
It’s important to check your first aid kit regularly to ensure everything is in good condition and nothing has expired. Replace out-of-date supplies and replenish anything that has been used. This keeps the kit ready and reliable for emergencies, ensuring safety and quick response when needed.